Albay clash leaves 2 dead - Army chief

A government militiaman and a suspected rebel were killed following a clash between Philippine security forces and New People's Army insurgents in Albay province Wednesday, the chief of the Army said. In a text message to reporters, Lt. Gen. Arturo Ortiz said the clash erupted 10 a.m. when patrolling elements of the 2nd Infantry Battalion engaged 20 insurgents at the boundary of Guinobatan and in Pio Duran towns. Major Angelo Guzman, spokesman for the Army's 9th Infantry Division, identified the government fatality as militiaman Roberto Oliquino. The wounded militiaman was identified as Gilbert Medallada. Guzman said the rebel fatality was identified as one Jose Acabado of Sitio Danao, Barangay Onggo in Guinobatan town. Am M16 rifle was recovered from the rebels, Guzman said. The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines. The government has been talking peace with the CPP's National Democratic Front since 1986, although formal negotiations under the Aquino administration have yet to start. — RSJ, GMA News